WMJ : official publication of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin
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Low back pain is estimated to affect 80% of the general population at least once in their lifetime. It is the fifth leading cause of medical clinic visits and the leading work-related disability. Lumbar discography has been used to diagnose the source of low back pain when non-invasive imaging, such as magnetic resonance (MR), does not reveal morphologic abnormality consistent with symptoms. ⋯ These causes of positive pain provocation are not amendable to invasive treatment. In these cases, an invasive diagnostic procedure to identify problems best treated with conservative management is not practical. The conclusion of this review found no clear evidence-based purpose for discography in the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain.